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Grapefruit, Bergamot, Rosemary
Crafting an Earthy Citrus Botanical Alchemy
Grapefruit reduces inflammation, Bergamot improves mood, and rosemary has stimulatory effects on the nervous system. Together these oils create a wonderful uplifting scent that leaves my clients feeling refreshed and ready to continue their day. It took a while before I settled on this blend and it may have never happened if it wasn’t for a detour I took in my Massage Therapy career. Luckily it carved out a space for aromatherapy in my practice for over a decade.
In 2014 I got a job at Terme Di Aroma, a well known established Spa in Olde City Philadelphia. There I expanded my knowledge around essential oils, developing Tranquil Therapy’s signature scent. This blend has Rosemary, Grapefruit, and bergamot essential oils which have health benefits that may surprise you.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit essential oil, derived from Citrus paradisi, is another valuable addition to the world of essential oils. Let’s explore its unique properties and benefits.
It has a wide variety of health benefits such as its Anti-inflammatory properties from studies done on the “rose pink” variety. It effectively reduces inflammation within the first two hours of smelling the oil. Citrus oils, like grapefruit have antimicrobial properties according to research done with grapefruit peel oil. Making it a great oil all year around to prevent sickness. Those same peels are rich in d-limonene, and may be suitable for managing gallstones and regulating appetite! While some of these benefits are seen more when ingested topical applications are sometimes stronger. In the case of its antioxidant benefits it occurs when digested.
Grapefruit essential oil has also been known to lower blood pressure so be sure to use caution if you already have low blood pressure. While it is less of an issue when used topically please be careful and consult your physician before ingesting grapefruit as it will interfere with some medications.
Bergamot aromatherapy
Bergamot, the sleeper feel good essential oil has more benefits that you may think. I love earl grey tea. The smell is always pleasant and cozy. When I realized the essential oil smelled just as good I was determined to create a blend that would let this beauty shine. When starting this research I didn’t expect to find so many incredible properties.
A pilot study observed that 15 minutes of Bergamot aromatherapy exposure improved participants’ positive feelings compared with the control group. It showed promising results in reducing anxiety, stress, and depression with minimal side effects.
More participants participated in experimental periods, indicating the potential of essential oil aroma to increase willingness to enroll in clinical trials. I thought this was a funny note in the study and had to add that in here. They also used it in a mental health waiting room to test it’s efficacy and safety. No surprise but it passed the test. The same study found that bergamot has several beneficial effects including reduced heart rate, blood pressure, stress responses, depression, and anxiety.
Tranquil Therapy has always tied mental health in with what we do. Aromatherapy, the inhalation of essential oils, is a cost-effective, safe, and appropriate addition to therapy for depression and anxiety. You can do this many ways such as using an oil diffuser, adding it to a carrier oil you already use, and even dropping a bit on a napkin and carrying that with you.
Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is an evergreen shrub used in folk medicine for various conditions. While folklore has a lot to say I’m going to stick with some finding from a study done on it’s medicinal properties. Studies highlight its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and clinical effects on mood, learning, memory, and pain. This study focused on nervous system disorders and that is what I will focus on as well. They particularly showed positive effects on memory in older adults. Suggesting a potential role of rosemary in maintaining cognitive function during aging.
Rosemary has active constituents like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid that show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Rosemary also exhibits neuropharmacological properties which are beneficial for all nervous system disorders.
In one study it was found to alleviate long-term memory deficits and inhibit the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the rat brain, suggesting potential benefits for cognitive function. Aromatherapy treatment however showed potential in improving cognitive function, particularly in Alzheimer patients!
What to watch out for
Essential oils offer a natural approach to improving mood and managing pain. From the stimulating effects of rosemary to the mood boosting effects of bergamot, these plant-based remedies can be valuable additions to your wellness routine. As research continues to explore their benefits, essential oils are becoming increasingly recognized as effective complementary therapies for enhancing overall well-being.
While essential oils offer many benefits, it’s important to use them safely:
– Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
– Use high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources.
– Never ingest essential oils unless they are marked as “Food Grade”.
– Consult with a healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant.
Remember, while essential oils can be beneficial, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider for persistent mood issues or chronic pain.